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On the Clock: Michael Dal Colle

by
Tyson Giuriato
/ Vancouver Canucks

Name: Michael Dal Colle

ISS Ranking: 3 Position: LW Height: 6’2” Weight: 182 lbs Shoots: Left

In a nutshell

Dal Colle compiled 95 points (39-56-95) in 67 games last season for the Oshawa Generals, mainly playing on a potent line with Flyers prospect Scott Laughton and Canucks prospect Cole Cassels. Dal Colle was the highest scoring 1996-born Canadian player in the CHL last season. He is an offensive powerhouse that combines his good playmaking skills with a big-time shot. He can play either centre or the wing, but appears to be more suited to the wing.

Been there, done that

Won gold for Canada at the 2013 Ivan Hlinka, netting four points (2-2-4) in five games. Suited up for Ontario at the 2013 World Under-17 Challenge, registering six points (2-4-6) in five games. Was named to the OHL First All-Rookie team after his 48-point freshman campaign during the 2012-13 season. Was the highest scoring player in the 2014 OHL Playoffs that did not go to the finals, amassing 20 points (8-12-20) in just 12 games.

NHL comparison

Patrick Marleau is a name that has been thrown around a lot when comparing Dal Colle’s style to a current NHL player. If Dal Colle can fill out his 6-foot-2 frame and continue to develop his defensive side of the game, he may just end up being a Patrick Marleau-type player at the NHL level. Dal Colle himself feels he plays a little more like Hurricanes captain Eric Staal.

Word on the street

“Michael is just beginning to ‘touch’ his physical maturity. His combination of size, skill and power will only be enhanced as he continues to grow on and off the ice.” – TSN’s Craig Button (Jan. 23, 2014)

Good fit in Vancouver?

When you get into the top three or four picks in the draft, there is no question that any of these guys would be welcomed to Vancouver. If someone is to move up into the Top 5, there is a chance Dal Colle could slide to the Canucks at No. 6. The Canucks brass will know what they are getting here, having watched Dal Colle a bunch this season when checking in on prospect Cole Cassels throughout the year.